MANCHESTER: Sarawak is charting a future built on artificial intelligence (AI), hydrogen and semiconductors as key pillars in developing a more sustainable, competitive and technology-driven economy.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the strategic direction was shaped following major challenges faced by the state, including shifts in the national political landscape and the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Abang Johari said the situation prompted Sarawak’s leadership to develop the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) as the foundation for the state’s long-term development.
“After COVID-19, our economy was affected. So we need to rise again and determine a new direction. We brought together leaders, the corporate sector and NGOs to discuss what needs to be done,” he said in an UKAS report during the Sarawak Agenda Town Hall titled ‘Sarawak Towards The Future’ held in conjunction with Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak 2026, UK Edition on Sunday (May 3 local time) here.
The session was moderated by Chief Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman.
Elaborating on the economic direction, he stressed that Sarawak no longer wants to depend on the traditional economy, but instead is exploring a new economy based on technology and sustainable resources.
“We do not want to remain in the old economy. We must move towards a new economy such as green energy, AI and new technologies,” he said.
In terms of energy, he explained that Sarawak has chosen hydrogen as one of its future energy sources to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
“I have chosen hydrogen as a new fuel to drive our economy. At present, the cost is still high, but like other technologies, the cost will decrease as usage increases,” he said.
He added that Sarawak has advantages in energy resources, including hydro, solar, biomass and gas, which can be utilised sustainably.
On semiconductors, he emphasised the importance of chip development as the foundation of future technology.
“Today, almost all systems rely on chips. The future will be driven by semiconductors and artificial intelligence,” he said.
